Methods: Using two chromogenic assays based on peroxidase, small amounts of peroxide diffusing out of a certain matrix can be detected in the range of a few µg/mL. These systems allow to check peroxide diffusion out of bleaching products and lead to the development of new, highly effective water-insoluble whitening varnishes.
Results: A bleaching device based on a water-insoluble varnish matrix containing 6% car-bamide peroxide was developed. The film forming varnish creates a barrier to the gingival tissue, supporting the directed diffusion of the carbamide peroxide directly into the tooth. This targeted local delivery of carbamide peroxide allows to achieve very good bleaching results with peroxide concentrations much lower compared to other paint-on products on the market. As a result the risk of soft tissue irritation can be reduced.
Conclusion: Employing these enzyme based hydrogen peroxide determination it is possible to develop and to characterize different formulations of bleaching products in regard to their tooth whitening efficacy. Hence, a screening method was established which was used for the development of VivaStyle PaintOn®, a safe and efficient new product for whitening of vital teeth without the use of a tray. The efficacy of the bleaching varnish was proven in different studies. Thus, a significant whitening effect was achieved after different application regimes of once or twice a day for 7 and 14 days, respectively. The improvement in color is in the range of 1.9 to 4.3 tabs after at least 14 applications.